Pope calls for end to heavy bombing of Gaza in Angelus address

Gaza children on the wreckage of their home. Photo by Mohammed Ibrahim on Unsplash

Source: Vatican Media

In Pope Francis' Angelus message, distributed to pilgrims in St Peter's Square today and read by tv and radio presenters, (on the day he left hospital) he reflected on the day's Gospel and used it to highlight the immense suffering of the people in Gaza, as well as all those who, around the world, suffer the consequences of war.

He wrote: "I am saddened by the resumption of heavy Israeli bombing on the Gaza Strip, causing many deaths and injuries. I call for an immediate halt to the weapons; and for the courage to resume dialogue, so that all hostages may be released and a final ceasefire reached".

He continued by highlighting the "very serious" humanitarian situation in Gaza, warning that urgent commitment is required from the conflicting parties and the international community.

At the same time, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude for steps taken toward peace in the South Caucasus, where Armenia and Azerbaijan are moving towards a finalised peace agreement.

"May this be a sign of hope," he prayed, "that other conflicts, too, may find a path to resolution through dialogue and goodwill."

The Gospel of the day points to the image of the barren fig tree, spared from being cut down in the hope that it may still bear fruit. This, the Pope said, is how God looks upon humanity: with mercy, with perseverance, and with a love that never tires. In light of all the suffering, but of all the hope, "It is the same patience we are called to cultivate in our daily lives, especially in times of hardship and uncertainty", said the Pope.

Before concluding, the Holy Father once again placed his trust in the intercession of the Virgin Mary, asking her to accompany the Church and the world on the path of peace. He invited the faithful to join him in praying for peace, "especially in tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo."

Read the official English translation of the full message: https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2025/03/23/250323a.html